How To Write A Worship Song – Part 2

In my previous post I answered the first two of the four following questions about how to write a songs. Where do you start? What do you write about? What strumming patterns will drive the song forward and keep it both interesting and dynamic? How do you pick melodies that are catchy and memorable?

Here are my responses to the third and forth question:

4. What strumming patterns will drive the song forward and keep it both interesting and dynamic?

Sometimes your lyrical content will dictate the sort of strumming pattern the song is calling for. And sometimes the opposite is true. Either way, the same principle generally applies: The strumming pattern should communicate the same message that the lyrics and melodies are communicating. For example, a fast-paced strum pattern will often fit well with a high-energy declarative type of song, while a slow single strum will bring the energy down and invite the listener to focus on the lyrics.

An important thing to remember when it comes to strumming patterns and riffs is both repetition and variety. Let me explain. Without a certain amount of repetition, a song will not feel cohesive and will not be memorable. On the other hand, if there is too much repetition, the song will may be boring and monotonous. Finding that balance will serve you well.

5. How do you pick melodies that are catchy and memorable?

Much like the chord progression or riff that you come up with, the melody line will be one that jumps out at you. Try several different melodies for the same section, the same chord progression, and don’t settle on one until you love it. Nothing kills a song more quickly than a boring melody.

Listen to some of your favorite artists and pay attention to their melody patterns.

Descending and ascending melodies are often catchy.

Also, the lyrics should feel like they fit inside of your melody. They shouldn’t be forced into a certain pattern that they don’t fit it. Don’t be afraid to modify lyrics so that the cadence locks in with the melody.

Most of all, have fun. Write music that you like and lyrics that interest you. If you do that, chances are many others will identify will your music as well.

If you feel like you’re lacking some skills, take Christian guitar lessons to help move you to the next level. Learn more Christian guitar chords, or take some of your favorite worship guitar songs and use them as a template to work from.

Godspeed!

Tags: how to write a worship song, worship guitar, worship guitar songs, worship songs